UV tattoos

UV tattoos or blacklight tattoos are tattoos made with a special ink that is only visible under a blacklight. They are particularly popular in the raver subculture.

The tattoos are virtually invisible in normal light, although scarring from the tattoo machine in the application process may remain, and therefore still show. A UV tattoo becomes visible under blacklight, when it lights up in colors ranging from yellow to purple, depending on the ink chosen. As a direct result of its rumored invisibility, blacklight ink is often used for facial tattoos.

Arguments against UV tattoos

UV tattoo ink is not commonly known or used, as very few varieties of UV inks are approved for use in the US. This is because some people have had reactions to the ink, ranging from minor itching to dermatitis. Several UV inks are suspected carcinogens and allergens and at this time, no research has been conducted into the possible side effects of long term exposure. Some UV inks are known to yellow or turn slightly brown with sun exposure.

from TattooBlast.com